You're right - that's the book. It's an interesting read but nothing more than that. Yehudi Menuhin and many others show that to be a crock of shit. And in the case of the Beatles, yes they might have clocked up those hours in performing but their genius in songwriting came from somewhere else .

HughJr510Photo wrote: Whaty is the best way(s) to get regular photographic work?

I am in New Jersey

Please advise thank you

Hugh Gilmartin

Hugh -- look at your portfolio. I am sure the second picture (guy in the blue shirt) is a great guy but he doesn't quite scream to models - Hey, pay me to help you build your portfolio! Actually I had to look twice, I thought that was my cousin!

twoharts wrote: i'm not sure about that 10K hours thing. i could hit golf balls for 10,000 hours and just be sore and never get any better. it only works if you can get better over time.

and i've seen photographers who were great from day one. maybe they didn't have everything under control technically but either you have it or you don't.

i think if you have it and then you put in the 10,000 hours that makes sense. but if you don't have it then it may not matter how much time you put in. if you don't have it you may get better but you won't be great.

Depends on your attitude, if you believe in yourself and put your mind to something, you can achieve anything. Anyway, some people work their way up the ladder through hard work, skill and determination while others are just arse lickers..

the unique limitations you were born with notwithstanding, you may be able to achieve great things through hard work and a positive attitude.

some doors are closed from birth and will always be closed. no 5'-3" chick is going to be a VS model unless the world turns upside down. however a guy with metal legs did get to run in the olympics. a guy with a golf cart did get to compete in pro tournaments.

i would tell my kids try hard but be realistic about your chances and maybe have a plan B or plan C, especially if they aren't hot or at least charismatic.

Paola B wrote: if you believe in yourself and put your mind to something, you can achieve anything.

HughJr510Photo wrote: Whaty is the best way(s) to get regular photographic work?

I am in New Jersey

Please advise thank you

Hugh Gilmartin

Put together a kick ass port, and foster the relationships you make that got you the photos in that kick ass port. People are not going to give you money just because you tell them, "I am good and worth the $500 to take your pictures."; they'll need proof.

Also, do a search of photographers in your area using the Browse button. How do the ports of the other shooters compare with your own? Because when looking for someone to pay to shoot them, models will seek out the best photog for the right price.

I am familiar with Fairfield, NJ (I used to go to Rutgers U. in New Brunswick) and it's close proximity to NY. You'll also have NY photogs to compete with.

You first need to build a portfolio. I looked at your page, and thought I was on Facebook for a second. To do that you need to search your local area and find models looking for TF work. Or you could hire and pay an experienced model or two. IMO if they are available to you, use them!

Print out business cards and hand them out to random people. Vista print has a sample pack you can get for free.

Judging off your MM port, you're going to have to work for free for awhile until you craft your skill. Shoot anybody and anything. Even if they aren't a model! That will help spread your name, and it's practice.